Overview
Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Seta Registrations
Personal Information
References
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Nicholson Malawana Mkohlakali

East London
Nicholson Malawana Mkohlakali

Overview

32
years of professional experience

Summary

Best First Aid Instructor in the Eastern Cape, 1994 to 1996.

In 1996, established the office of The President's Award was established in East London.

Received an award for the best Programme Manager in the Eastern Cape from Planned Parenthood Association of SA.

Established LoveLife Youth Centres in Mthatha and Mbizana in collaboration with the Department of Health.

Helped open the first Provincial office of Absolute Return for Kids (Ark) in conjunction with the Eastern Cape Department of Health in 2006.

Assisted the Great Kei Local Municipal Council in establishing non-existent policies and absorbing staff members who had been casual for more than eight (8) years. Established the existence of ghost employees through staff audit and verification.

Work History

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality

Senior Manager Strategy & Transformation
01.2018 - 10.2022

Job overview

STRATEGY

  • Organizational situation analysis (SWOT analysis / Organizational Diagnosis)
  • Link MGDS with other municipal plans, EC PDP, NDP and SDG
  • Develop target for MGDS in-conjunction with relevant directorates.
  • Augment synergy between MGDS (metro strategy) and IDP
  • To enhance service delivery through SDBIP monitoring (quarterly reports)
  • To align programme management with MGDS
  • Research and benchmark for the Metro on strategy direction
  • To enable implementation of Catalytic Projects
  • To provide support and monitor reduction of the costs of doing business.
  • To provide support and monitor IDP/PMS/Budget Process Plan implementation.
  • To provide support and monitor institutional compliance with legislation policies, and plans.
  • To provide support and monitor departmental / directorates operational plans.
  • To provide support and monitor IGR forum functioning.
  • To provide support and monitor Revenue Enhancement strategy implementation including section 71 reports.
  • To provide support and monitor expenditure management through monthly financial delegation reporting including section 71 reports.
  • To provide support and monitor reporting.

TRANSFORMATION

  • To supplement institutional change enablement
  • To provide support and monitor implementation of employment equity plans.
  • To provide support and monitor on learnerships and internships implementation.
  • To provide support and monitor on bid committees in line with SCM plans.
  • To provide support and monitor on BBBEE, EEA implementation.
  • To enhance institutional performance management
  • To augment legislative compliance with risk and audit assurance requirements
  • To provide support and monitor implementation of training plans.
  • Serve on Bid Committees
  • Serve on Governance & Audit Committee
  • Serve on Risk Committee
  • Serve on Performance Committee
  • Serve on Municipal Public Accounts Committee – Technical Advisor
  • Secretariat to the Municipal Disciplinary Board
  • Serving as WSU Advisory Board Member
  • Directed cross-functional teams to implement policies promoting sustainable growth and improved service delivery.
  • Oversaw budget management processes, ensuring efficient allocation of resources across municipal departments.
  • Streamlined operational workflows by implementing process improvements that increased departmental efficiency and accountability.
  • Mentored junior managers, fostering professional development and enhancing team performance through targeted training programs.
  • Conducted comprehensive assessments of municipal programs, driving data-informed decisions for continuous improvement strategies.
  • Collaborated with stakeholders to develop long-term strategic goals aligning municipal objectives with community needs and priorities.
  • Facilitated workshops aimed at enhancing team collaboration and communication across diverse organizational functions.
  • Provided strong leadership to enhance team productivity and morale.
  • Led cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and deliver high-quality results.
  • Improved team performance by providing comprehensive training and fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Collaborated closely with peers from other departments to drive organizational success jointly as one cohesive unit.
  • Implemented and developed operational standards, policies and procedures.
  • Promoted a culture of continuous learning through regular workshops, seminars, and training sessions for staff.

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality

Sub Municipal Electoral Officer
06.2016 - 10.2022

Job overview

  • Liaison on IEC Projects between Buffalo City and IEC, Consultation by IEC members and officials on electoral matters, Preside at Multi-Party Liaison Committee (MPLC) meetings of BCMM, acting as IEC appointed Rep on elections & by-elections of BCMM.
  • Managed voter registration processes to ensure accuracy and compliance with electoral laws.
  • Coordinated logistics for polling stations, optimizing resource allocation and operational efficiency.
  • Monitored election day activities, ensuring adherence to protocols and timely resolution of issues.
  • Collaborated with local authorities to implement security measures for safe electoral environments.
  • Evaluated post-election reports, identifying areas for process improvement in future electoral cycles.

EISA Hub

Exam Administrator, Invigilator and Assessor
09.2025 - Current

Job overview

  • Administer examinations before, during and after Examinations, Invigilate Examinations, assessment of Learner Scripts /Files and Moderation of Learner Scripts not assessed by myself.

University of Fort Hare

Freelance Facilitator & Assessor
09.2015 - 06.2025

Job overview

  • Facilitation & Assessment of 50372 FETC: Municipal Finance and Administration Level 4; 48965 National Certificate: Municipal Finance Management; 50205 National Certificate: Municipal Integrated Development Planning; 67467 National Certificate: Municipal Governance Level 5; 50081 FETC: Leadership Development; 58578 National Certificate: Local Government Councillor Practices; and 57823 National Certificate: Ward Committee Governance.
  • Developed and implemented engaging training programs for diverse student populations.
  • Facilitated workshops promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills among participants.
  • Coordinated collaborative projects between faculty and students to enhance learning outcomes.
  • Streamlined administrative processes, improving efficiency in program delivery and student support services.
  • Evaluated participant feedback to refine facilitation techniques and program content continuously.
  • Advocated for innovative teaching methodologies, driving curriculum enhancements across departments.

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality

Office Manager
06.2016 - 12.2017

Job overview

  • Provide strategic support to the HOD: Executive Support Services, manage and coordinate administration of the department, compile, and coordinates reports of the department, prepare and drafts IDP and budgets inputs for the department, monitor and ensure implementation of departmental Council resolutions, represent HOD as delegated.

Nomaku Traders CC

Freelance Facilitator & Assessor
02.2015 - 05.2016

Job overview

  • Training & assessment of 50372 FETC: Municipal Finance and Administration Level 4; 48965 National Certificate: Municipal Finance Management Level 6; 50205 National Certificate: Municipal Integrated Development Planning Level 5; 67467 National Certificate: Municipal Governance Level 5; 50081 FETC: Leadership Development Level 5; 58578 National Certificate: Local Government Councillor Practices Level 3; and 57823 National Certificate: Ward Committee Governance Level 2.

Kgolo Business Trust

Provincial Executive Manager – Eastern Cape
06.2014 - 11.2014

Job overview

  • Marketing of Kgolo to Municipalities, Government Departments, DBSA, PALAMA, LGSETA, and SALGA for learnerships, Learnership administration, Reporting, Training & assessment

Great Kei Municipality

Director Corporate Services
09.2008 - 08.2013

Job overview

  • Human Resource Service – organisational design, recruitment and selection, Conditions of service support; Medical Aid, Pension, Group Schemes.
  • Labour Relations - Collective agreements, local labour forum, CCMA, Bargaining council & Labour Court, occupational health & safety, employment equity and skills development.
  • Administration - Registry, archives and records, committee services, messenger & cleaning services, Legal services, switchboard, secretarial services, information communication & technology, property valuation, change management, corporate and operational risk assessment and management, client services, good governance, serve as alternate member of bid specification committee, Serve as member of bid adjudication committee, plan & implement disposal of municipal assets, develop & implement audit preparations and actions plans, advice the Municipal Manager of KPAs, contribute in developing & implementation of budget & adjustment thereof, performance management, development & review of Integrated Development Plan (IDP), legislative implementation & compliance, departmental supply chain management, property management - land, buildings and fleet.
  • Directed strategic planning initiatives to enhance community engagement and service delivery.
  • Oversaw budget management, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and resource allocation.
  • Implemented performance metrics to evaluate departmental effectiveness and improve operational efficiency.
  • Facilitated collaboration among various departments to optimize service provision and resource sharing.
  • Developed policies that address community needs while adhering to regulatory requirements and best practices.
  • Led staff training programs focused on professional development and skill enhancement across the organization.
  • Managed stakeholder relationships to foster partnerships that support municipal objectives and community welfare.
  • Analyzed data trends to inform decision-making processes and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
  • Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
  • Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
  • Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
  • Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
  • Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
  • Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
  • Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or municipal operations.
  • Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.

Absolute Return for Kids – ARK

Provincial (EC) Business Systems Manager
03.2006 - 08.2008

Job overview

  • Financial Management, Human Resources Management, Negotiating and managing contracts and MOUs with business/ngo/government partners, Implementation and maintenance of ARK’s working procedures, Management of administrative services and providing the necessary training, Event manage the occasional visit of patrons, Planning and motivating for the resources - necessary to achieve the objectives above, M & E – business plan for Eastern Cape and development of logframe for business plan, Risk management, Property management.

LoveLife Trust

Regional Campaign Manager
12.2005 - 02.2006

Job overview

  • Programme implementation, management and monitoring, maintain Brand integrity, manage partnerships, ensure conformity to brand standards, training and development, conduct needs assessment, outreach, marketing, lobbing & advocacy, HR management, staff recruitment & selection, develop performance contracts, performance management, ensure compliance to legislation in the region. Monitoring & Evaluation - collate & submit regional data, financial, statistical & narrative reports, conduct clients surveys for the region, financial management - develop, manage and monitor budget and expenditure reports, submit monthly and quarterly reports.

Planned Parenthood Association of SA - PPASA

Provincial Programme Manager
01.2001 - 11.2005

Job overview

Key performance areas (KPAs)

  • Project management
  • Human resource management
  • Advocacy and lobbying
  • Strategic areas
  • Resource development & sustainability
  • Strengthening the institution
  • Programme expansion
  • Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Led cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve patient care outcomes.
  • Oversaw budget management, ensuring resource allocation aligned with organizational goals.
  • Mentored staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
  • Collaborated with stakeholders to advocate for community health needs and access to services.
  • Facilitated training sessions, equipping staff with essential skills for improved service provision.
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
  • Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
  • Developed a strong company culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities.
  • Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
  • Built high-performing teams through effective recruitment, onboarding, and talent development initiatives.
  • Managed budgets effectively, ensuring optimal financial performance while investing in necessary resources for business growth.
  • Reduced operational costs through comprehensive process improvement initiatives and resource management.
  • Achieved significant cost savings by renegotiating contracts with key vendors, without compromising service quality.
  • Facilitated team brainstorming sessions that led to innovative solutions for long-standing operational challenges.
  • Boosted employee morale and reduced turnover through development and implementation of comprehensive rewards and recognition program.
  • Implemented customer feedback mechanisms to gather insights, using this information to guide strategic planning and decision-making.
  • Developed comprehensive risk management plan, minimizing potential disruptions to business operations.
  • Managed budget allocations to prioritize spending on high-impact projects, optimizing resource utilization.
  • Organized professional development programs for staff, leading to improved performance and skill sets.
  • Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.

Siya Career College

Administration Manager
04.1998 - 12.2000

Job overview

  • Administration duties, supervision of six staff members, marketing of the college, scheduling of courses &

The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment

Area Manager
07.1996 - 03.1998

Job overview

  • Administration duties, supervision of five staff members, PR duties, management of activities: Skills training, Expedition camps, various sporting codes, community Service.

The South African Red Cross Society

Field Officer & First Aid Instructor
10.1993 - 06.1996

Job overview

  • Disaster relief, stock control, food aid distribution, Mentoring of youth structures, drafting of youth policies, coordinating, international youth exchange programme, facilitating first courses level I – III.

Education

Southern Business School (Stadio Higher Education)
Advanced Diploma In Human Resources Management

University Overview

NQF level: NQF 7 (120 credits), SAQA ID: 79586

Module 1 : Management Practice IV, 20 Credits - Pass

Module 2 : Leadership IV, 20 Credits - Pass

Module 3 : Research Methodology & Project IV, 20 Credits - Pass

Module 4 : Orgnisational Bahaviour IV, 20 Credits - Pass

Module 5 : Human Resources Management IV, 20 Credits - Exempted

Module 6 : Labour Law IV, 20 Credits - Pass

The Graduate Institute of Management & Technology
Diploma In Labour Law

University Overview

Pitched NQF level: NQF 7 (240 credits), SAQA ID: 36051

Module 1 : Individual Labour Law, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 2 : Collective Bargaining & Negotiation, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 3 : Dispute Resolution, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 4 : Equal Treatment & Non-discrimination, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 5 : Social Security Law, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 6 : Conciliation & Arbitration, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 7 : Labour Relations, 30 Credits - Pass

Module 8 : Alternative Dispute Resolution, 30 Credits - Pass

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Extracurricular Diploma In Practical Labour Law

University Overview

Pitched NQF level: NQF 6

Module 1 : Individual Employment Law - Pass

Module 2 : Collective Labour Law, Social security & Skills - Pass

Module 3 : Dispute Resolution & Labour Law Advocacy Skills - Pass

Module 4 : Human Resources Management in the Public Sector - Pass

University of Fort Hare - Bisho Campus
NC: Municipal Financial Management

University Overview

Pitched NQF level: NQF 6, 258 credits, 22 Unit Standards SAQA ID: 48965

National School of Government
Advanced Certificate In Project Management

University Overview

Plan and implement Project Management in the Public Service

National School of Government
Nuykela Public Service SMS Pre-entry Programme

University Overview

SMS Pre-entry Programme

Rhodes University
Certificate Monitoring & Evaluation

University Overview

Monitoring & Evaluation

University of Pretoria
Executive Leadership Municipal Development

University Overview

Executive Leadership Municipal Development

Academy of Learning
Diploma In Micro Computers

University Overview

Introduction to Computing Practice

University of Fort Hare
Diploma In Business Management

University Overview

Business Management Practice

Eastern Cape Training Institute
Diploma In Marketing Management

University Overview

Marketing Management Practices

Leadership Development Institute
Conduct Outcomes Based Assessment (115753)

University Overview

Plan and Conduct assessments

Bull’s Business & Skills Training Institute
Facilitation And Moderation (US: 117871 & 115759)

University Overview

Plan and Conduct Facilitation

Plan and Moderate Assessments

North-West University
Postgraduate Diploma In Public Management

12.2025 - Current

University Overview

NQF 8 (SAQA ID: 97666)

Module 1 : Programme and Project Management in the Public Sector 2026

Module 2 : Human Resource Management in the Public Sector 2026

Module 3 : Public Financial Management and Budgeting 2026

Module 4: Governance, Public Management and African Leadership – Pass

Module 5 : Public Sector Transformation and Reform – Pass

Module 6 : Public Sector Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation – Pass

Skills

  • Programme Management
  • Project management
  • Quality Management
  • Business management
  • Budget management & cost control
  • People management
  • Organizational objectives
  • Strategic management
  • Monitoring and Evaluation methods
  • Community development
  • Financial management
  • Social and economic development
  • Stakeholder management
  • Report writing
  • Conceptual ability
  • Planning skills
  • Mentoring & Coaching
  • Communication skills
  • Problem solving Skills
  • Relationship management
  • Decision making skills
  • Facilitation skills
  • Computer skills
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Co-ordination skills
  • Conflict management
  • Customer service
  • Attention to detail
  • Recordkeeping and file management
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Administrative support
  • Team building and leadership
  • Personable and approachable
  • Schedule coordination
  • Work Planning and Prioritization
  • New hire onboarding
  • Resourceful and analytical
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Presentation creation
  • Policy writing
  • Public Supply Chain Management
  • Enterprise risk management
  • Unauthorised, Irregular, Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure Champion

Seta Registrations

Registered Assessor since 2015, Moderator registration pending (awaiting Statement of Result (SoR)

  • PSETA
  • LGSETA
  • ETDPSETA
  • SSETA

Personal Information

  • Driving License: Code 08 (EB)
  • ID Number: 6908085802088

References

  • Mrs Nomsa Mabanga, Senior Manager: Department of Local Government & Traditional Affairs - Former PPASA, 0615290598, namabanga41@gmail.com
  • Mrs Vidah Mayana, MD: Mavai Development Services (Former Director PPASA & loveLife), 0828210119, mavaiconsultants@gmail.com
  • Mr Andile Sihlahla, Former City Manager: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, 0413673247, andiles@gmail.com

Timeline

North-West University

12.2025 - Current

Exam Administrator, Invigilator and Assessor

EISA Hub
09.2025 - Current

Senior Manager Strategy & Transformation

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
01.2018 - 10.2022

Sub Municipal Electoral Officer

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
06.2016 - 10.2022

Office Manager

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
06.2016 - 12.2017

Freelance Facilitator & Assessor

University of Fort Hare
09.2015 - 06.2025

Freelance Facilitator & Assessor

Nomaku Traders CC
02.2015 - 05.2016

Provincial Executive Manager – Eastern Cape

Kgolo Business Trust
06.2014 - 11.2014

Director Corporate Services

Great Kei Municipality
09.2008 - 08.2013

Provincial (EC) Business Systems Manager

Absolute Return for Kids – ARK
03.2006 - 08.2008

Regional Campaign Manager

LoveLife Trust
12.2005 - 02.2006

Provincial Programme Manager

Planned Parenthood Association of SA - PPASA
01.2001 - 11.2005

Administration Manager

Siya Career College
04.1998 - 12.2000

Area Manager

The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment
07.1996 - 03.1998

Field Officer & First Aid Instructor

The South African Red Cross Society
10.1993 - 06.1996

Southern Business School (Stadio Higher Education)

The Graduate Institute of Management & Technology

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

University of Fort Hare - Bisho Campus

National School of Government

National School of Government

Rhodes University

University of Pretoria

Academy of Learning

University of Fort Hare

Eastern Cape Training Institute

Leadership Development Institute

Bull’s Business & Skills Training Institute

Nicholson Malawana Mkohlakali